1. Open the application and start a chat with a certified vet.
2. Talk to the vet regarding the concern that is faced by your little one or have a regular chat about your pet’s health
3. You will be presented with a personalized plan for your pet as soon as the expert assesses your furry friend’s condition.

• Reduced stress: Pets often experience higher levels of stress and anxiety when visiting a traditional veterinary clinic due to the unfamiliar sights, sounds, and smells. CuddlyTails is an online platform that allows them to receive care from the comfort of their home environment, minimizing stress and potential complications.
• Video and photo consultation: CuddlyTails allows owners to share videos or photos of their pets, enabling the veterinarian to observe the pet’s behavior, mobility, and any potential issues in their familiar surroundings. This can provide valuable insights for diagnosis and treatment.
• Accessibility to specialists: CuddlyTails provides access to a network of specialists, who can offer expert guidance on caring for pets and addressing any unique challenges they may face.
• Personalized advice: Through consultations and detailed discussions with the owner, CuddlyTails can offer personalized advice on creating a safe and enriching environment for pets, including tips on litter box placement, feeding routines, and navigating the home.

Excessive tearing, also known as epiphora, is a common issue in dogs that can lead to various forms of eye drainage. This condition can manifest as clear, white, yellow, or green discharge and may indicate an underlying eye problem. Understanding the causes, symptoms, and treatments for excessive tearing is essential for pet owners.

Causes of Excessive Tearing

1. Breed Disposition: Certain breeds, particularly brachycephalic (short-faced) dogs like Shih Tzus, Bulldogs, and Pugs, are more prone to excessive tearing due to their facial structure. Their eye shape can lead to moisture accumulation in skin folds, creating an environment for bacterial growth and potential infections.
2. Eye Infections: Dogs can develop bacterial, viral, or fungal infections in their eyes, often triggered by irritants or transmitted from other animals. Infections typically require veterinary treatment, including prescribed eye drops or ointments.
3. Allergies: Environmental allergies can cause red, watery eyes in dogs, similar to hay fever in humans. Antihistamines may help alleviate these symptoms.
4. Trauma: Any irritant, such as dust or foreign objects, can lead to excessive tearing. Minor irritations may cause dogs to rub their eyes, exacerbating the problem. Serious injuries, such as scratches from sharp objects, necessitate immediate veterinary attention.
5. Obstruction of Tear Ducts: The nasolacrimal duct drains tears from the eyes into the nose. A blockage in this duct can cause tears to overflow, leading to excessive tearing.
6. Keratoconjunctivitis Sicca (Dry Eye): This condition results from insufficient tear production, leading to irritation and thick discharge. Veterinary intervention is essential for treatment.
7. Entropion: This condition involves the inward rolling of the eyelids, causing eyelashes to rub against the cornea, resulting in irritation and excessive tearing.

Symptoms of Excessive Tearing

• Watery eyes: Noticeable tear overflow
• Discharge: Clear, yellow, or green discharge from the eyes
• Redness: Inflammation or redness around the eyes
• Squinting: Indicating pain or discomfort
• Rubbing: Dogs may rub their eyes with their paws or against objects
• Staining: Reddish-brown staining of the fur under the eyes due to porphyrin in tears

Diagnosis and Treatment

Diagnosis typically involves a thorough veterinary examination to identify the underlying cause of excessive tearing. Treatment may include:

• Medications: Depending on the cause, veterinarians may prescribe eye drops, ointments, or oral medications to treat infections or allergies.
• Surgery: In cases of anatomical issues like entropion or blocked tear ducts, surgical intervention may be necessary to correct the problem.
• Home Care: Regular cleaning of the eye area can help prevent irritation and infection. Trimming the hair around the eyes and using optical-grade eye irrigation solutions can also be beneficial.

Preventive Measures

To help prevent excessive tearing and associated issues:

• Regular Veterinary Check-ups: Routine visits can help catch potential problems early.
• Maintain Cleanliness: Keep the area around your dog’s eyes clean and dry to prevent bacterial growth.
• Grooming: Regularly trim the fur around the eyes to avoid irritation and facilitate cleaning.

If you notice persistent excessive tearing or discharge in your dog, consult your veterinarian for a thorough evaluation and appropriate treatment. Early intervention can help prevent complications and maintain your dog’s eye health.